Inspire Health Magazine Issue 27

INSPIRE

Empowering Natural Living

Practice Aikido Learn to Love Better

The "POW"of

Cacao

TO PALEO OR NOT TO PALEO

e c a F y t t e Pr

MORE THAN JUST A

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contents 5 SUPER FOOD

The "POW"of Cacao

7 FEATURE

To Practice Aikido is to Learn to Love Better

8 NATURAL BEAUTY

Argan Oil Is Your Next Beauty Essential

ON OUR COVER

More Than Just a Pretty Face

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10 EXERCISE

Sculpt Your Body with Barre

12 HEALTHY BODY

To Paleo or Not to Paleo

14 RECIPE

Sunshiny Citrus Smoothie

16 WELLNESS

Is Cupping a Cure?

20 RECIPE

Butternut Squash & Apple Salad with Tahini Dressing

26 PETS Love

34 HEALTHY DESTINATIONS

A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE BEGINS AT RANCHO LA PUERTA 4

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28 MIGHTY KIDS Love Your Kids, Love Their Teeth

29 RECIPE

Easy Berry Cobbler Cookies

30 DISCOVER

All-Natural Alternatives to Sugar

32 LONGEVITY

Change Your Water Change Your Life!

34 HEALTHY DESTINATIONS A Healthier Lifestyle Begins at Rancho La Puerta

36 FASHION A Pink Affair

38 RECIPE

Roasted Balsamic Cauliflower Steaks with Tomato Basil Relish

18 EAT FRESH

Heal with a Serving of

CITRUS

super food

The "POW"of

o a c a C F

By: Leah Porche, RD

irst thing first! How do we pronounce such a word?

According to Merriam-Webster, cacao is pronounced “kә-'kau̇.”

After further research, my official opinion is that it is pronounced, “kah-cow,” much like ka-POW, which just so happens to be a good explanation of how it tastes! The flavor of raw cacao powder, or a cacao nib, is intensely bitter with a chocolatycoffee undertone.This less-processed substance is the elder cousin of cocoa, which is made into cocoa powder (think Nestle Quik), then into cocoa liquor, and ultimately chocolate. While both versions have the same origins and have similar health benefits, I give the gold to cacao. It is not as processed as cocoa so it retains its plethora of nutrient rich components including fiber, iron, antioxidants, and more! For something that generally lands under the dessert section, that is an impressive list of nutrients, but even more impressive is that cacao boasts a higher concentration of antioxidants than the notorious goji berries, acai berries, and blueberries! These antioxidants have been shown to reduce the damage caused by free radicals in the fight against cancers as well as aging, so go ahead and add this super food to your diet today!

RISE & SHINE SMOOTHIE

BY LEAH PORCHE

Here are a few of my favorite way s Try a cacao energy ball recipe for a quick and healthy pop

Put some cacao nibs in your granola or trail mix for a surprising bite

Add cacao powder to your morning smoothie to start your day with a bang

1 scoop of ice 1 tsp cacao powder 2 tbsp honey simple syrup (or 1 tbsp honey) ½ cup cold brew 3/4 cup almond milk? inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag

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editor’s letter

Love

All you need is love. Powerful words penned by John Lennon back in 1967. Undoubtedly, they reference romantic love. And, because they're Lennon, we can also assume global accord and love of your fellow man.

Here at Inspire Health, we believe in these forms of love ... as well as a few others.

Love of Earth. By preserving, appreciating and fully utilizing the many natural resources of the planet, we can live long, satisfying lives, both today and tomorrow.

Love of family. There are so many ways to show the wonderful people in our lives that we care. Shouldn’t nurturing healthy lifestyles be among them?

Love of self. Your mind, body and spirit are yours and yours alone.

Don't always put yourself last. Take time to take care of yourself, both inside and out.

If we can just remember these few things ... well, love really is all you need.

CREDITS

Hugs all around, Michele Robert Poche Help us inspire others! We want to know what inspires you to live healthy.

You could be published in the next issue of Inspire Health magazine.

Email us at editor@inspirehealthmag.com.

Find us online!

www.inspirehealthmag.com INSPIRE

Staff

Executive Publishers HAL G. FOX & SUZANNE POLK FOX Section Editors PATRICIA DANFLOUS TAMI CHARBONNET WHITNEY ALEXANDRA MICHELE ROBERT POCHE SUZANNE POLK FOX Creative Team Creative Director JENNIFER CABALLERO Art Director TRA PHAM Web/Digital NEAL BOYD Print Production DEBBIE WELDON

Sales National Sales VIVIAN DUGAS National Sales MICHELLE DUNN National Sales PAM ROGERS National Sales MELISSA FOSTER

Cover Health & Fitness Fashion & Beauty Kids & Family Destinations

© 2016 Jumpstart Publishing, LLC, New Orleans, LA All rights reserved Printed in the USA by Fox Print Services (igofox.com) The information contained in Inspire Health is intended for educational purposes only. A reader should never substitute information contained in Inspire Health for the advice of a health care professional. Jumpstart Publishing, LLC and publishers of Inspire Health, do not endorse or promote any of the products or services described in the pages of Inspire Health and the publishers do not verify the accuracy of any claims made in the editorial or advertisements contained in Inspire Health. Readers should not use the information in Inspire Health for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. Readers should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or have or suspect they have a health problem.

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A e c i t c a r p o T ido k i A IS TO LEARN TO LOVE BETTER

By Robert Brian Levy Sensei

ikido is a martial art. But it is not about breaking or destroying an attacker. It is about protecting oneself. And, as the creator of the art, Morihei Ueshiba (O Sensei) saw it, it is an art whose highest aim is,‘the loving protection of all things.’ Practicing Aikido can help us defend ourselves against a bully or other aggressor while at the same time teaching us to forgive, to make peace, and to love more fully.

In most of our ways of approaching conflict, both within ourselves, with friends, family, and co-workers, and even with larger entities like companies, or other nations, we tend to resort to strategies of force against force.

We are raised to believe in me versus you, us versus them, I win, you lose, or vice versa.

Aikido practice teaches us another way.

When we practice this ‘art of peace’ (one good translation of the Japanese word Aikido) we take turns playing the role of ‘attacker’ (uke) and ‘peace-maker’ (nage). Together we practice more controlled scenarios in the dojo (place where one practices a martial art such as Aikido) to learn methods of creative and effective conflict resolution. As our level progresses, we take away more of the control and practice more realistic scenarios.

Aikido works by getting out of the way of aggression. But not by fleeing it. Not ignoring it. We learn to get out of the way just enough to be able to effectively re-direct the attack so that the attacker’s aggression is neutralized. In practice this often leads to the attacker ending up on the ground or even pinned in a joint lock, giving the ‘peace-maker’, the Aikidoist, the time to either flee the scene or hold the attacker down until they either calm down or help arrives.

Aikido practice teaches us effective and fun self-defense. We develop better fitness, stamina, flexibility, strength, and peace of mind.

And we also learn how to take what we are learning on the practice mats in the dojo out into the world and into our daily interactions with others and ourselves. We learn that empathy, forgiveness, and kindness are more effective ways of showing up in our lives than indifference, resentment, and cruelty. We learn that if we can truly learn to ‘blend’ with the intention of an attacker, not meeting force with force, but rather showing him or her another way to go, that we can transform both ourselves and those around us by this most fundamental of means – loving our ‘enemies’.

natural beauty

N l i O n a Arg IS YOUR NEXT BEAUTY ESSENTIAL By: Whitney Alexandra

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It’s great for moisturizing.

Despite the fact that oil is in the name, argan oil is actually relatively dry and is great for providing moisture to your skin. Use it at night and wake up with super silky, soft skin.

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2.

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3.

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If you’re prone to acne, this oil may be your new best friend! It reduces sebum levels in individuals with oily skin, helping to clear up and prevent future breakouts.

Argan oil is ideal to help heal wounds and scars so you can totally use it on those pesky razor bumps and burns and even those annoying little stretch marks.

ative to Morocco and referred to as ‘liquid gold’ by a little newspaper called The New York Times, argan oil is the latest all-natural product you must try this season. Derived from a nut, this oil is packed with essential fatty acids, anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals that are fantastic for ones skin, hair and overall health without containing crazy, toxin-filled chemicals in it.

The process of how argan oil is made is interesting as well. Local Berber women hand-crack the argan nuts in between

two stones, a technique they’ve used for centuries, and instead of using any type of machine they individually extract the nut from the hard shell, handgrind it in a stone grinder, hand-knead it for hours and then cold-press it into the oil. This labor-intense process makes argan oil extremely valuable and sets it apart from the rest of the oils out there.

So now that you know the process and what makes it, in my opinion, better than the rest, let’s talk a bit about why your skin and hair absolutely needs such an enriched product.

Smooth hair is just a few drops of argan oil away! Adding into wet hair works wonders as a leave-in conditioner that will have everyone jealous of your silky locks all day long.

Argan oil helps to strengthen nails and soften cuticles, so next time you give yourself a mani-pedi, don’t forget to add the oil.

This one is my favorite!

You can use argan oil to brighten up your skin simply by adding it into your foundation, moisturizer or bronzer.

Simple, easy and glowing!

If you are looking to enhance your natural beauty regimens, this is a great natural product that offers many benefits!

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exercise

SCULPT YOUR BODY WITH

Barre is the increasingly popular ballet-inspired workout designed to sculpt and develop lean muscle mass while improving range of motion, balance and flexibility. More than likely, you have heard about hip barre studios such as pure barre, bar method, barre3, flybarre, and xtend barre. Many gyms, fitness clubs and studios also offer barre classes as an option for both members and group fitness enthusiasts. While each studio teaches its own method, barre technique focuses on small, isometric movements and stretches to lengthen and strengthen muscles.

BARRE

By: Tami Charbonnet | Model: Megan Ellender | Photographer : Milestone Photography

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UPRIGHT PARALLEL Keep chest lifted with head over shoulders, shoulders over hips, and hips over heels. Roll the shoulders back, down and away from ears.

Pull pubic bone to belly button and brace tightly through the core.

Tuck the tailbone under slightly.

Sink feet into the floor and stay in one place while you bend the knees.

For a more advanced option, lift onto toes and stay. Open arm gently and allow it to hover at shoulder height as you hold the position on feet or heels for 1 minute

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FROM UPRIGHT PARALLEL lift onto tip toes with hand gently lifted overhead. Hold position for 1 minute.

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SECOND POSITION PLIÉ Take a wide stance and point your toes about 45-degrees outward. Extend arms gently over head. Keeping your knees behind your toes, and your shoulders stacked over hips, bend knees to lower body until thighs are parallel to the floor.

From this position, stay for one minute. Attempt 10- 1 minute repetitiions. Don’t worry, you may need to build up to 10, 1 minute reps.

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RELEVÉ PLIÉ Stand behind a bar or a chair and face it with legs together and toes pointing forward. Gently place hands on the bar or chair back for support. Squeeze inner thighs together and lift heels high off the ground. Keeping shoulders stacked over hips and thighs engaged, bend knees and lower body straight down until thighs form a 45-degree angle with the floor.

Without dropping heels, extend knees to come back up to a standing position.

That's one rep.

Continue for one minute.

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FLAT BACK This move opens up the back of the legs as well as the outer hips. Place palms on a bar or chair and step feet back behind. Bend knees slightly, lean torso forward, and hold.

Exhale, lift left hips up toward the ceiling. Inhale through center. Repeat 10 times, 1 minute reps.

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NARROW V This pose shapes your entire leg, especially your inner and outer thighs. Draw heels together and turn legs out so toes are about 4 inches apart in a narrow "V" position. Keeping shoulders stacked over hips, bend knees into a narrow plié.

Press heels firmly to floor, or as an advanced option, hover them slightly off the floor, coming onto the balls of the feet. Option to rest one hand or both hands on bar for balance. Hold for 5 deep breaths. Keeping range small and controlled, lower 1 inch deeper into plié, then lift 1 inch. Increasing range of motion, drop bottom down toward heels, then lift all the way up and squeeze inner thighs together. 30 reps/1 minute

ADVANCED BONUS MOVE: Forward Fold on Relevé:

STAND WITH FEET TOGETHER, ARMS BY SIDES.

Inhale as you gently lift both arms high over the head, reaching towards ceiling, on your next inhale come into relevé (heels lift) keeping arms raised high, exhale as you fold forward with a flat back. Wrap arms around calves and hold steady.

Balance for two deep breathes. Lower the heels and slowly roll up, arms along sides.

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healthy body

TO

OR NOT TO PALEO?

D

on’t follow fad diets.

They do not work.

If you have learned anything from your own dieting history, you already know what you need to do for losing or maintaining weight.

But what about following a Paleo lifestyle? Makes sense, doesn’t it? Based on the concept of eating like our caveman ancestors, the Paleo Diet is a dietary trend, emphasizing a high-protein, high-fiber eating pattern. Pa-

By Patricia Danflous leo followers eat a significant amount of fresh lean meat, fish, a little fruit and some vegetables. Eggs, (most) nuts, seeds and healthy oils are also allowed. Processed foods are not on the permitted list, nor are grains, dairy, peanuts, beans, sugar, salt and potatoes.

“The Paleo Diet is based on four central ideas,” says MediFit Corporate Services Nutritionist and Fitness specialist Kirk Vidrine.

Paleo proponents, report that eating grains can lead to inflammation and related health problems. “Controlled trials consistently show that eating grains, whether whole or refined, does not affect inflammation at all,” he says. “Research shows that whole grains may decrease inflammation and its is the processing of refined grains, not the grains, that may increase inflammation.”

Restricting legumes such

THE CONCEPTS INCLUDE:

• The body adapted to eat particular kinds of foods • Man dramatically changed his diet during the agricultural revolution • Diet change has led to weaker, less fit people • To stay healthy, strong and fit – and avoid the chronic diseases of modernity – we need to eat like our preagricultural ancestors

THE PALEO DIET HAS SOME SUBSTANTIAL SUCCESSES. 12

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• Paleo-style eating emphasizes whole foods, lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and other healthy fats, which is a massive improvement over the average Western diet.

• Paleo-style eating has been extremely effective for improving several chronic diseases such as Celiac disease

as beans and peanuts from your diet is the Paleo way.

However, Vidrine states, legumes have been found at Paleolithic sites all over the world and in some cases were determined to be the dominant type of plant food available. “A recent review revealed that our Paleolithic ancestors not only ate legumes, but they were also an important part of their diets,” he adds.

FOR HEALTHY DIETING FOLLOW AN EATING PLAN THAT INCLUDES: • lots of veggies • some fruit • nuts and seeds • increased Omega-3’s and healthy fats • lots of water • low levels of highly processed foods • moderate to low levels of lean proteins • moderate to high level of whole grains and starchy vegetables • low-level of enriched grains • moderate dairy

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recipe

SUNSHINY CITRUS SMOOTHIE Recipes from Blissful Basil by Ashley Melillo Fresh mango, frozen banana, orange, and grapefruit are blended with lime juice and baobab powder to create a smoothie with a sunshiny hue, an ultra-bright taste, and a pop of vitamin C. Something about the color of this smoothie really does make me happy—it’s difficult not to feel a touch of optimism when you’re staring into a golden abyss of blended fruit.

INGREDIENTS 2 cups fresh mango chunks (about 2 medium mangoes) l 1 ripe and speckled banana, peeled, sliced, and frozen l 1 navel orange, peeled and quartered l 1/4–1/2 large grapefruit, peeled and seeded l 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice l 1 teaspoon baobab powder (optional)* l

DIRECTIONS Add all the ingredients to a high-speed blender, and blend until smooth. If needed, add in a bit of filtered water, 1/4 cup at a time, to encourage blending.

What in the World Is Baobab? | Baobab is a naturally occurring raw fruit powder derived from the baobab tree. It has a lovely citrusy flavor that’s reminiscent of orange sherbet, and it contains 6 times more vitamin C than oranges and 5 times more potassium than bananas!  Makes 2 (16-ounce) smoothies 15 minutes or less

Recipes from Blissful Basil

by Ashley Melillo

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wellness

IS Cupping A CURE?

By Cindy Lobert

If

you watched last summer’s Olympics, you may have noticed large red circles on some of the athletes’ backs. Those marks — bruises, in fact — were the result of cupping therapy, an ancient healing practice from Asia that uses cups to reduce muscle pain and increase circulation.

There are many different types of cupping but the basic technique is the same.

The client lies face down on a massage table and the

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practitioner places cups on the body. Traditionally, cups are heated with an open flame, or a hand pump is used to create a vacuum.

When the cup is lifted, red circular marks may appear.

The creation of suction is said to enhance circulation and lymphatic drainage, helping tissues process metabolic waste and regeneration.

Aside from promoting muscle rehabilitation and blood flow, many cupping practitioners believe that it

The scientific community can cure various ailments by removing obstructions warns that there are no large-scale studies to in the body’s energy prove cupping’s effectivepathways. Cupping is said to release “trigger points,” ness, and that in some cases where “bloodletting” or tissue adhesions under (small cuts) are involved, the skin, that can create it could be downright muscle pain and tension. dangerous.

It’s also used to stimuSome athletes late the immune system, disagree. Olympic gold thwarting colds and flu. medalist Michael Phelps is Sometimes cupping is combined with acupuncsaid to use cupping before ture, a centuries-old every swimming event.

Patricia DanflousOther swimmers and Chinese By tradition.

Cupping enthusiasts gymnasts are fans as well. describe the procedure Even stars such as Gweas a warm, relaxing nyth Paltrow and Samuel massage-like experience L. Jackson use cupping to that enhances well-being combat aches and pains. and reduces stress. But If you’re interested in cupping has its share of trying this time-honored healing technique, be sure detractors as well. Some to find a trained health find the technique and its resulting red welts painful. professional. Check out local massage therapists, But does cupping acupuncturists, wellness actually work? centers or spas to find a Well, like many Eastprovider near you. Happy ern medical techniques, cupping! it depends who you ask.

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eat fresh

Heal with a Serving of

CITRUS

By Tami Charbonnet

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T

he healing benefits from citrus consumption are a direct result of specific vitamin content, complements of individual natural plant biochemicals (‘phytochemicals’), minerals, and essential nutrients found in the juice, pulp and even sometimes in the peel of citrus fruits. Citrus is commonly recognized as a good source of vitamin C; however, citrus fruits also contain an impressive list of essential nutrients including ORANGES Sweet orange, Polelo, Mandarin, Blood orange, Naval orange, Satsuma, Tangerine, Clementine, Seville, Bergamot

both glycemic and non-glycemic carbohydrates (sugars and fiber), potassium, folate, calcium, thiamin, niacin, vitamin B, magnesium, copper, and riboflavin.

According to recent study by FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations), Department of Agriculture and Consumer Protection, “Citrus products may provide more of their beneficial effects when consumed as the complete food product—the whole piece of fresh fruit, or the

LEMON Meyer, Ponderosa, Shangjuan

LIME Desert , Finger, Kaffir, Key, Persian, Round

container of 100% juice.

Clinical and other studies provide evidence that there is a synergy of beneficial effects greater and more effective than the individual components provided separately.” For example, the artificial blends or mixtures of some of the broken or processed components from citrus have not been shown to provide the same symphony of beneficial effects identified with fresh fruit and 100% juice consumption. Citrus fruit and 100% pure citrus juices

CITRON Balady, Corsican, Florentine, Greek, Moroccan

EXOTIC CITRUS Amanatsu, Buddha’s Hand, Cam Sanh, Etrog, Kabosu, Kinnow, Kiyomi, Oroblanco, Shonan Golg, Sudachi, Tangor, Naruto, Kitchli

provide a highly beneficial whole food delivery system.

Citrus consumption will also help fight weight gain, protect against Anemia, type 2 Diabetes, lower risk of stroke, heart disease, hypertension, neural tube defects, reduce stress, help prevent cancer, improve vision, and boost the immune system. Consume a variety of citrus from the following list to add healing benefits, nutrient density and delicious flavor to your daily plate.

A STUDY BY REGISTERED DIETITIANS AT SAN FRANCISCO GATE SHOWS “One small orange, one-half of a small grapefruit and one large tangerine are all equal to about 100 grams. You would have to eat almost two small lemons to consume 100 grams and gain the same amount of nutrients in one small orange. A 100-gram serving of orange, grapefruit or tangerine has 32 to 53 calories, 8 to 13 grams of total carbohydrates and 7 to 11 grams of sugar.

Oranges and grapefruit have low glycemic index scores, which means their natural sugars don't cause a big spike in blood sugar. “

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recipe

BUTTERNUT SQUASH & APPLE SALAD with Tahini Dressing

I

By Amie Valpone, thehealthyapple.com

t’s a new year, which means it’s time to start your New Year’s Resolutions to eat and live clean. What do I mean by that? For starters it means tossing all the processed foods from your pantry and fridge and replacing them with whole foods. I know that probably sounds overwhelming (if you need some guidance, check out my best-selling cookbook Eating Clean: The 21Day Plan to Detox, Fight Inflammation, and Reset Your Body, which guides you through the kitchen detox process). Focus on one ingredient, whole, organic foods- you can base your entire day around these foods by selecting proteins, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates at the food store and tossing them together to make your meals and snacks, like the recipe below. Think of

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healthy proteins as organic chicken, beans and legumes; healthy fats such as avocado, walnuts, almonds, extra-virgin olive oil, coconut oil and pumpkin seeds; and complex carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, squash and gluten-free whole grains.

Eating clean is a lot easier than you think- start your New Year off on the right foot by tossing those processed foods that leave you feeling heavy, bloated and tired (which is a sure sign of inflammation) and instead reach for whole, organic foods.

Here’s an easy recipe you can make this week for dinner and serve leftovers for lunch. Tahini is a great way to get protein in your dressing; it looks just like peanut butter but it’s made from pureed sesame seeds, which are high in calcium and protein. It’s a win-win.

l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l

INGREDIENTS 1 large butternut squash 2 tbsp. melted coconut oil Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste 2 cups finely chopped Swiss chard 2 cups finely chopped flat (dinosaur) kale 1 cup chopped purple cabbage 1 small apple, diced 1 small cucumber, diced 3 tbsp. raw walnuts, chopped 2 tsp. finely chopped fresh cilantro 1 large scallion, thinly sliced Juice of 1 large orange 2 tbsp. tahini (sesame seed butter) 1 tsp. hemp seeds 1 tsp. freshly grated orange zest

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. 2. Slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise and transfer to a rimmed baking sheet. Remove and discard the seeds.

Drizzle with the coconut oil, sea salt and pepper. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until the squash is tender.

3. Remove the squash from the oven and set aside for 10 minutes. Peel the squash, discard the skin and cut the flesh into ½-1 inch cubes. Place the cubes in a large bowl. Add the chopped Swiss chard, kale, cabbage, apple, cucumber, walnuts, cilantro and scallion.

4. In a small bowl, whisk the orange juice and tahini until it creates a creamy dressing consistency. Drizzle this dressing over the squash and kale mixtures. Garnish with the hemp seeds and orange zest. Season to taste with sea salt and pepper and serve warm.

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cover story

MORE THAN JUST A

y t t e r P e c a F

By Patricia Danflous

Do not call Simona Fusco a Perfect 10. Although she may very well be today’s standard for feminine beauty and charisma, she would much rather be known as a Perfect 12.

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January § February 2017

S

"There was aismisalignment imona Fusco well conionista, producer, actress and philannected in the entertainment thropist explains in a light-hearted of what and industryI –believed she produced intone.

With a strong belief that going “Beverly Hills Christmas” beyond the skin’s surface is necessary what Istarring wasDeanactually doing.

Cain in 2015 for a meaningful relationship, Simona My zero-waste lifestyle and has over 30 movie and TV credits founded Perfect 12 Introductions, an to her name. But her interest in the award-winning executive matchmaking was my way of aligning field is waning.

Today, her award-winand personal recruiting firm with a 90 ning matchmaking firm Perfect 12 is success rate. Originated and those values." percent her number one priority along with headquartered in Beverly Hills, Califorher non-profit organization,The Maria Gruber Foundation.

A native of Vienna, Austria, Simona entered into the spotlight at eight years old in national modeling campaigns for Benetton and Lacoste. As a young teenager, she moved to America where the entertainment world discovered her beauty, talent and charisma. It was her Hollywood life that sparked an interest in matchmaking. “Being in the entertainment business, all you meet are other people in the business,” she describes.

“I really wasn’t interested in dating people in my business and I am not the type of girl to go to nightclubs or bars. I certainly did not want to go online for the obvious reason that it is too dangerous. Matchmakers would constantly approach me to join their service but I was very apprehensive.” Simona told me that she had been with matchmakers and eventually was introduced to her late husband and father of her child.

However most of the matchmakers lied to her, told her things that were not true about the dates she went on, made her feel unprotected, exposed and used by the people she confided in just so they could appease their male paying clientele. It is for that very reason that she wanted to form a business emphasizing trust and a hands-on approach as well conducting thorough background checks as well as the extras including relationship counseling and image consulting.

“A Perfect 10 is just a pretty face.

A 12 offers so much more than just that. She is sophisticated, classy, educated and her inner beauty far outshines her outer beauty,” the award-winning business owner, entrepreneur, fash-

nia, the company has offices throughout the United States.

The expert matchmaker is selective in her client base. “The clients I take on are like family. We both have an understanding that I am here for them to help them find what they’ve been searching for their entire life. Because of the way I run my company and the

advisor.Their time and reputation are important to them and that is why they come to me to find love. Upon meeting I decide whether their expectations are realistic and match the values and core morals of our company. My clients are very discerning and that is why they entrust me.”

When it comes to image, Simona offers diverse suggestions for dressing, especially when it comes to that first date. Her female clients frequently ask her for suggestions about what to wear on that first date and it is for that very reason Simona started her very own online boutique www.StylebySimonaFusco.com. “Instead of sending my clients to an expensive Beverly Hills boutique, at Style By Simona Fusco my

Perfect 12 has hundreds of marriages.

I am responsible for many babies and lovely relationships. It is very satisfying" values that I insist on upon myself, my staff, my clients and my girls, I have an over 90% success rate.There are a lot of beautiful women and wealthy men that apply with my agency on a daily basis from across the globe,” she says. “It is not looks or money that get you accepted into my agency; it is about what you offer besides a pretty face, fame or fortune. In addition to extensive faceto-face interviews, Perfect 12 conducts background checks, verifying all potential clients before introductions. “My clients consist of celebrities, athletes, politicians, Fortune 500, doctors, attorneys, and so forth who aren’t the types to go to bars, nightclubs or online dating sites to meet random people.They do not have problems meeting women or vice versa, in fact they are very popular, but they’re looking for quality over quantity. Much like they outsource a personal chef, personal driver or a personal trainer, they outsource their love life to a trusted

clients can find designer looks at affordable prices sure to impress their first date and every date thereafter”.

“Perfect 12 is responsible for hundreds of marriages and many babies.

It is the most satisfying feeling to be responsible for two people meeting and falling in love.There is nothing more rewarding than being responsible for making someone happy and matchmaking is that and more to me. Everyone, no matter who they are, whether they’re rich, famous, beautiful or not, everyone ultimately wants to love and be loved. It sounds cliché but that is what life is all about. Finding your puzzle that fits. I feel lucky to be able to say that I have found a career that completely fulfills me and in the process of having found my calling, I am able to fulfill other peoples’ lives as well through Perfect 12 and my non-profit organization The Maria Gruber Foundation.”

“I started my non-profit organiza-

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cover story tion in honor of my mother and for Farah Fawcett, the godmother of my daughter. Both passed way from stage 4 colorectal cancer,” she explains, adding that it was her mother’s guidance and encouragement to keep moving forward. “The Maria Gruber Foundation is not to find a cure, but more to let people know that colorectal cancer can be so easily avoided if people would get a colonoscopy. It is also to provide support to families whose loved ones are affected by terminal cancer by turning the fear, grief and helplessness caused from this disease into awareness, compassion, and support. It is the mission of The Maria Gruber Foundation to create educational tools designed to help parents, children, and loved ones affected with terminal cancer. Foundation volunteers aid families with grocery shopping, walking pets, taking children to and from school, cooking, funeral arrangements, insurance negotiations, and many other aspects of their day to day life.”

You're both loyal, honest and bring value to the table

Although it is hard to imagine that Simona has any free moments when she is not writing a relationship article, interviewing clients, educating and helping others about cancer, or developing a new program to inspire young women, she does spend considerable time outdoors. “I have a beautiful German Shepherd and I love hiking with him,” she says. “I am an avid bike rider, putting in about 30 miles a day and I love driving along the coast all the while coming up with new ideas to improve my already existing businesses as well as creating new ones. I also enjoy traveling and exploring the world.”

Talking to Simona made me realize that this woman is far from the A-typical LA woman I thought she was; rather, Simona has much more depth, compassion and actually is a caring and loving human being, from helping people find love to helping families left behind by personal tragedy, her inner beauty far outshines her outer beauty.

In my book that is a Perfect 12.

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pets

e v o L W

HAT IMAGE IS USED MORE THAN ANY OTHER WHEN TRYING TO DISPLAY THOUGHTS OF LOVE? THE HEART. THAT’S BECAUSE THIS ORGAN IS THE CENTER OF THE LIFE-GIVING FLOW OF BLOOD IN THE BODY AND EQUATES TO THE LIFE-GIVING EMOTION LOVE. So, the heart is something to be protected and nurtured. This applies to our pets as well. Heart disease in the dog and cat is not uncommon. In the cat particularly, it is an important malady to watch for because cats often don’t show signs of cardiac disease until the disease is quite progressed… and very difficult to treat.

Modern veterinary medicine has developed newer tools to attempt to intervene earlier in the course of feline heart disease. There are now new blood tests and, of course, x-rays, EKG’s, and echocar-

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diograms which can help veterinarians diagnose cardiac disease in the cat. But, often times, your veterinarian can get an idea of heart disease in your cat by virtue of a simple physical exam. At that point, your vet will recommend further investigation into whatever he or she hears on your cat’s physical exam. But, this is one of the BIG reasons why it is important to bring your kitty to your veterinarian for a physical at least yearly, and semi-annually in cats over 12 years old.

And, early intervention into cardiac disease in the cat can be quite rewarding to manage. Once the diagnostic work-up is completed and your veterinarian has a good idea about the nature of the cardiac disease, there are medicines and, sometimes, diet to help your cat’s heart.

So, the next time you say you love your cat, think about your cat’s heart. Ask your veterinarian to make sure it’s healthy so your cat can love you back for a long time.

Once the diagnostic work-up is completed and your veterinarian has a good idea about the nature of the cardiac disease, there are medicines and, sometimes, diet to help your cat’s heart.

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e v o L mighty kids

YOUR KIDS, THEIR TEETH

By Michele Robert Poche

Many people say the first thing they notice about others is their smile. And what is a smile? A collection of hopefully healthy, white teeth.

So why is it that the average person begins getting his adult teeth as early as age 5?

Can a kindergartener really care for them well enough to last a lifetime?

TEACHING YOUR KIDS ABOUT LIFELONG DENTAL CARE

B

BRUSH AS LEAST TWICE DAILY. In the beginning, you’ll be doing all the work. As he transitions to school age, let him do the brushing as you coach him. Remind him not to swallow the toothpaste and that only a pea-sized amount is needed.

A F

AVOID DAMAGING FOODS. Yes, we all know about sugar (candy, sweets) but what about acid (citrus, ALL soda) or stickiness (dried fruit) or even breakage (ice)?

FLOSS. Once she has teeth touching within her mouth, it’s time to floss. If she’s antsy, try it while she’s distracted by a favorite television program.

Feeling brave? Let her floss your teeth first. And smile the entire time. She’s watching you for cues.

V

VISIT THE DENTIST. The American Dental Association recommends scheduling his first visit within six months of the first tooth’s eruption.

The earlier he gets accustomed to this routine, the more likely it will become a lifelong habit.

P

PROTECT THE TEETH. If your child is going to participate in contact sports or anything that puts her teeth at risk, custom-fitted mouth guards should be worn to avoid injuries to the teeth, lips, face and jaw.

E

EXPOSE HIM TO FLUORIDE. Whether in toothpaste, mouthwash or water intake, fluoride has been scientifically proven to prevent tooth decay by at least 25%. The CDC named it one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.

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recipe INGREDIENTS For The Berries  1 cup blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries (or a combo)  1 tablespoon real maple syrup For The Cookies  1 cup brown rice flour  1/2 cup almond meal  1/4 teaspoon of salt  1 teaspoon of baking soda  1/4 cup maple syrup  1/3 cup applesauce  2 teaspoons vanilla

JESSICA MURNANE

jessicamurnane.com insta: @jessicamurnane

EASY BERRY COBBLER COOKIES

INSTRUCTIONS  Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Prepare the fruit topping by combining maple syrup and berries in a small bowl. Set aside.  For cookies, mix together the brown rice flour, almond meal, salt, and baking soda in a large bowl. In a medium bowl, mix together maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla. Pour your wet ingredients into your flour mixture and fold everything together.The batter should be very doughy.  Roll dough into small balls (a little smaller than a golf ball) and place on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.Take your thumb or a back of spoon and press down to make a little well for your fruit filling.Top with your filling.  Bake for 8-10 minutes until slightly brown on the bottom.

Let cool. Eat them up!

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discover

BLUEBERRY MUFFINS INGREDIENTS  1 ½ c. flour  2 tsps. baking powder  1 tsp. cinnamon  ¾ c. sugar  1/3 c. applesauce  1/3 c. skim milk (or almond milk)  1 egg (or egg substitute)  1 tsp. vanilla extract  2 c. blueberries

INSTRUCTIONS  Preheat oven to 400°.

Spray 24 mini-muffin cups with cooking spray.  Blend flour, baking powder and cinnamon.  In separate bowl, blend sugar, applesauce, milk, egg and vanilla.  Combine bowls, fold in blueberries and fill muffin cups 2/3 full.  Bake 15 minutes or until inserted toothpick comes out clean.

Then, I picked four sugar alternatives: coconut sugar, pure maple syrup, Stevia, honey. Here’s how it went.

01

COCONUT SUGAR

Appearance/Taste: Similar to brown sugar Sugar/Alternative: 1:1 Cost: $4.99/lb.

Regular grocery store: Unlikely Cooking time: According to recipe

ALL-NATURAL ALTERNATIVES TO

r a g Su

By Michele Robert Poche

There’s actual science behind the sweet tooth, but what if we could tame that mischievous tooth with other, all-natural alternatives to sugar?

“I could made a recipe four different ways, subbing out sugar for another natural sweetener each time!” I suggested at a

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recent IHM staff meeting.

“Yes!” was the resounding reply from around the table.

I knew I was on to something. It wasn’t atom splitting, but it involved dessert so it had to be important. I left that meeting and found a simple recipe.

02

PURE MAPLE SYRUP

Appearance/Taste: Typical syrup (Richer than most sugary brands) Sugar/Alternative: 1:3/4 (This recipe = just over ½ cup) Cost: $6.99/8-oz. bottle Regular grocery store: Likely Cooking time: 20 minutes (Because of added liquid)

03

STEVIA

Appearance/Taste: Similar to artificial sweetener Sugar/Alternative: 1 cup:1 tsp. (This recipe = 3/4 tsp.)

Cost: $8.99/4.2-oz. jar Regular grocery store: Likely Cooking time: 13 minutes (Could’ve gone less. VERY dry.)

04

HONEY

Appearance/Taste: Typical honey Sugar/Alternative: 1 cup:1/2 cup (This recipe = 3/8 cup) Cost: $3.69/8-oz. bottle Regular grocery store: Likely Cooking time: According to recipe

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longevity

CHANGE YOUR WATER

Change Your Life!

By Greg Fox

FIND YOURSELF PAUSING WITH INDECISION IN THE WATER AISLE AT YOUR SUPERMARKET BECAUSE THERE ARE SO MANY QUESTIONS SURROUNDING BOTTLED DRINKING WATER?

S

ome of the talk now includes acronyms that resemble alphabet soup and terminology that belongs in chemistry class.

Which brand is the healthiest choice? Is the bottle BPA free? Is the pH level above 8.0? Does this water make your body more alkaline? Should you use a mineral adding filter or an alkaline water ionizer machine?

The body requires attention at a cellular level to help fight against sickness and disease. The cells that make up the human body need to maintain alkalinity to keep healthy balance.

When someone refers to alkaline levels in the human body, they are referring to its pH level. The pH level is a number, on a scale of 0-14, used to measure the acidity or alkalinity of a substance.

The lower the number indicates higher acidity while the higher number denotes higher alkalinity. One of our body’s main defenses against disease is maintaining a proper pH balance.

Science has proven that disease can only grow in an acidic body.That means that if you are not making an effort with your diet choices to prevent your body from becoming overly acidic, then you are promoting the growth of viruses,

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yeast, bacteria, fungus and numerous unwelcome organisms. Most diseases cannot exist in an alkaline environment.

Drinking alkaline water neutralizes the acid in your body. Normal drinking water is generally a neutral pH of 7 while alkaline water has a higher pH. Alkaline water has been made rich (either naturally or artificially) with alkalizing compounds like calcium, silica, potassium, magnesium and bicarbonate.

Specialty bottled water, such as Essentia (pH 9.2) and Evian (pH 7.2) are more alkaline while Dasani (pH 5-7) and Aquafina (pH 5.2-7) incline to acidity.

Commercially available bottled alkaline water should not be confused with ionized alkaline water, which is created by water electrolysis. Water electrolysis is the only scientifically researched and confirmed method to incorporate the health benefits of alkalinity into your drinking water.This water goes by several names: Electrolyzed Reduced Water; Ionized Alkaline Water; Reduced Water.

A great start to your day is to drink ionized alkaline water first thing in the morning.

Keep a supply at your desk, at the gym or while you’re traveling as a substitute for soda or an energy drink.

A squeeze of lemon into your bottled or tap water is a convenient way to increase its alkaline content.

Good health and stamina can be maintained by reducing acid build up in your body. Ion alkaline water will benefit your overall well-being.

DID YOU KNOW? The pH level of your body can have an impact on your exercise and fitness training. During a workout, your muscles produce acids that tend to lower your body’s pH. As your pH level drops, your muscles become weaker and fatigued.

Hydrating with ionized alkaline water raises your body’s pH. This reduces muscle fatigue and soreness, shortens recovery times and improves endurance.

Most fruits and vegetables, including citrus, make your body alkaline. You need 8 servings of fresh fruit and vegetables to keep your body alkaline. Meat, dairy, and grains make your body acidic.

Foods aren't the only things that make your body alkaline or acidic.

Negative emotions such as anger, hate, sadness, despair, and loneliness also change your body chemistry to acidic.

Happy emotions, such as love, make your body pH alkaline.

You can test your pH level by putting pH paper, which you buy at your local health food store, in your mouth and wetting it with your saliva. Then compare the color the paper turns with the given chart. The optimal pH level is between 7.2-7.4.

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healthy destinations

A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE BEGINS AT RANCHO LA PUERTA

O

By Suzanne Fox

nly 25 miles “as the crow flies” from the Pacific Ocean, near San Diego, California, you will find Rancho La Puerta on 3,000 acres of private gardens, mountains and meadows.

This Baja California Fitness Resort has a program that is unmatched, with over 20 full time, in-residence instructors conducting five classes every hour. Exercise classes and activities include Pilates (Reformer and mat work), extensive yoga offerings, guided hikes on over 25 miles of wild lands trails, Feldenkrais, fitness ball, cardio drumming,T’ai Chi, trekking, TRX, aqua- exercise classes

of all types, dance, circuit training, Neuromuscular Integrative Action, strength training, stretch, posture, kettle bell, cardio-cycling, meditation, and many more.

The Ranch doesn’t consider itself a weight loss facility, but weight loss is a frequent product of the experience because of the combination of healthy eating and increased activity.The weather is so wonderful, guests enjoy the outdoor dining patios, where splashing fountains and shady live trees welcome breakfast and lunch diners all year.

The semi vegetarian cuisine features an abundance of organic fruits and vegeta-

bles grown right on the farm.

Visits to the organic farm take place almost daily: a favorite is an early morning guided hike that combines a 2-mile walk through rolling meadows and chaparral with a welcoming breakfast, a tour of the gardens, and an introduction to the principles of organic farming.

Set in the heart of the six-acre farm is La Cocina Que Canta Cooking School, where guests learn the magic of cooking with collorful, aromatic, just-picked organic ingredients.

Working together, each class creates and dines on a de-

lightful meal - an unforgettable culinary memory.

A program of lectures, games, workshops, world-class entertainers (musicians especially), arts and crafts classes, and various other programs throughout the week are a vital part of the Ranch experience.

Week-long packages start at approximately $3,250 per person for a double occupancy room and are inclusive of complimentary transportation from San Diego airport and back, meals, snacks, accommodations and a wide array of fitness classes.

Rancho La Puerta 858-925-1214 or (011) 52-665-654-9155 www.rancholapuerta.com

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Stylist: Whitney Alexandra www.whitneyalexandra.com | Photos: Bri Johnson www.brijohnson.com | Model: Marcelle (Q Model Management) | Hair & Makeup: LB Charles www.lbcharles.com

fashion

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T

he month of February is a time when love is in the air. Some of us enjoy it, while others of us wish it wasn’t such a big thing, but in the end it’s a time when you see red hearts, balloons, flowers and kisses, just about everywhere.Whether you and your significant other put a large emphasis on celebrating love or not…the feeling to be more feminine is most certainly in the atmosphere.Whether you are single or have a significant other the month of February is a perfect time to dress super chic and feminine and there’s no better way to do that than with the color pink. Let’s face it, the term ‘pretty in pink’ was created for a reason…and no, I don’t mean because Ducky was awesome in the movie, but because it best represents a soft, feminine, yet stunning look that works best on all types of women.

I know some of you may feel that it can be a little ‘too young’ to wear pink at times, but that’s definitely not the case, you just need to know what to pair it with and how to add your own touch and flair to it, making it powerful and more sophisticated. If you want a little bit more of an edgy feel, take an off the shoulder pink top and pair it was some black leather pants or even white skinnies and heels.To give a softer, more springtime feel, opt for a cute pink high-wasted mini-skirt with either a matching crop top or a cool patterned one.Want to add some funk? Try a pink floral jacket and a white skirt with some tennis shoes for a great casual look.Also, if you want to add a twist, throw some frill in or even some awesome pale pink jeans or jacket. I promise you can’t go wrong.

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A

K I N PAFFAIR

By Whitney Alexandra

So whether you are celebrating love in February or just enjoying a an evening out with friends, remember to feel the love and passion in the air‌for yourself, the ones you adore and for taking that bold step of adding a touch of pink to your wardrobe.

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recipe

Roasted Balsamic Cauliflower Steaks With Tomato-Basil Relish

It

was a school night in the spring of 1995; I was eleven and in the throes of my preteen years, and my mom served up a recipe for Sautéed Worcestershire Chicken that she had found in Bon Appétit. Although the title highlights Worcestershire, it was the subtle addition of balsamic vinegar that always stood out for me. It was this dish that ignited my love for the rich and tangy vinegar.

These Roasted Balsamic Cauliflower Steaks tip their balsamic hat to that childhood favorite of mine.They’re soaked in a rich balsamic marinade before being roasted and topped with a lively tomato-basil relish. I recommend finding the biggest head of cauliflower that you can or investing in two medium heads for this dish, because you’ll need to cut at least four sizable “steaks” from the center.

ROASTED BALSAMIC CAULIFLOWER STEAKS 1 extra-large or 2 medium heads cauliflower, outer leaves removed 2/3 cup balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup cold-pressed olive oil 2 tablespoons tahini 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2–3/4 teaspoon sea salt Freshly ground black pepper TOMATO-BASIL RELISH 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced 1/4 cup loosely packed basil leaves, thinly sliced 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar 1 small clove garlic, minced Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper FOR THE ROASTED BALSAMIC CAULIFLOWER STEAKS Carefully stand the head of cauliflower on its stem and use a sharp knife to cut it in half down the center. Then, stand each half on its stem and cut as many 1/2- to 3/4-inch-thick cauliflower “steaks” as possible, moving from the center outward.

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You’ll want at least 4 total but preferably more if possible. Reserve the remaining cauliflower for other uses.

Prepare the marinade. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, tahini, garlic, sea salt, and black pepper to taste. In a large resealable bag, combine the cauliflower steaks and marinade and toss to evenly coat. Marinate for 30 minutes, gently turning the bag every 5–10 minutes to redistribute the marinade.

After about 15 minutes of marinating, preheat the oven to 400 ̊F and line a large baking tray with parchment paper.

Remove the cauliflower steaks from the marinade and spread them out in a

Recipes from Blissful Basil by Ashley Melillo Serves 2–4 1 hour +

single layer on the lined baking tray. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and tender, gently flipping at the 15-minute mark.

FOR THE TOMATO-BASIL RELISH While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the tomato-basil relish. In a small mixing bowl, gently stir together all the relish ingredients, then refrigerate until serving.

TO ASSEMBLE Divide the cauliflower steaks among plates, and season with more sea salt and black pepper, if desired. Spoon the tomato-basil relish on top of each steak and serve immediately.

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